Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Geography
Lesson Topic: Factors which influence the structure and characteristics of urban areas
Learning Objective/s:
  • Identify the main physical, historical, economic, transport, policy, social, technological and global factors that shape urban structure.
  • Explain how each factor influences specific urban characteristics such as land‑use patterns, density, housing types and service provision.
  • Evaluate case‑study examples (London, Manchester, Shanghai) to illustrate the impact of these factors.
  • Apply knowledge to assess how a given factor would affect the layout of a hypothetical city.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Digital maps / Google Earth access
  • Printed worksheet with factor‑characteristic table
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Interactive quiz platform (e.g., Kahoot)
  • Exit‑ticket slips
 Introduction:
Begin with an image of a city skyline and ask students what makes different parts of a city look distinct. Recall previous lessons on land‑use and population density. Today they will explore the range of factors that shape urban structure and learn how to link each factor to observable characteristics. By the end they will be able to describe, explain and evaluate these influences.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – Students list features they notice on a local city map.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Overview of the eight influencing factors with slide visuals.
  3. Guided analysis (12’) – Small groups examine the case‑study table, match factors to urban characteristics, and record findings on the worksheet.
  4. Whole‑class discussion (8’) – Groups share insights; teacher highlights connections and corrects misconceptions.
  5. Interactive mapping activity (10’) – Using Google Earth, students locate a physical geography or transport feature and predict its impact on land‑use.
  6. Check for understanding (5’) – Quick quiz (Kahoot) with scenario questions.
  7. Exit ticket (5’) – Write one factor and its effect on a city they know.
Conclusion:
Summarise how the eight factors collectively shape the form and function of urban areas. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding. For homework, students will choose a city of their choice and create a brief report linking at least three factors to its current urban layout.